AJ Bell vs IC Markets 2026: Which Broker is Better?
In this broker comparison, we explore the fundamental differences between AJ Bell and IC Markets, two distinct financial service providers catering to different trader demographics. AJ Bell, headquartered in Manchester and regulated by the FCA, primarily appeals to UK-based investors interested in stocks and indices, offering a robust selection of ISAs and SIPPs, but with no forex or cryptocurrency options. In contrast, IC Markets, based in Sydney and regulated by ASIC and CySEC, is ideal for forex and CFD traders seeking ultra-low spreads and high leverage, supported by popular platforms like MT4 and MT5. While AJ Bell focuses on stock market investments with proprietary platforms, IC Markets provides a comprehensive range of trading instruments and platforms suitable for more experienced traders.
AJ Bell
IC Markets
| AJ Bell | IC Markets | |
|---|---|---|
| BrokerRank Score | 2.8/5 | 3.9/5 ✓ |
| Min. Deposit | $0 ✓ | $200 |
| Spread from | 0 pips | 0 pips |
| Max Leverage | 1:1 | 1:500 ✓ |
| Regulation | FCA | ASIC, CySEC ✓ |
| Platforms | Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile | MT4, MT5, TradingView |
IC Markets is the better choice overall, scoring 3.9/5 vs 2.8/5 on BrokerRank's independent rating. On fees, AJ Bell offers lower spreads (0 pips).
See full side-by-side comparison belowAJ Bell vs IC Markets: Key Differences
AJ Bell
IC Markets
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Fees Comparison
AJ Bell
IC Markets
Lower feesBrokerRank Verdict
Who Should Choose Which?
AJ Bell
2.8/5
Choose AJ Bell if you want…
- No minimum deposit
- More established (est. 1995)
IC Markets
3.9/5
Choose IC Markets if you want…
- Higher overall rating (3.9/5)
- Higher leverage (up to 1:500)
- More regulatory licences (2)
- More market types (6)
Also consider
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Both AJ Bell & IC Markets are available in
Frequently Asked Questions
1Is AJ Bell better than IC Markets?
IC Markets scores higher overall on our independent rating system. AJ Bell holds a 2.8/5 rating vs IC Markets's 3.9/5. The best choice ultimately depends on your trading style — see our full verdict above for a detailed breakdown.
2Which has lower fees, AJ Bell or IC Markets?
AJ Bell offers spreads from 0 pips, while IC Markets starts at 0 pips. Check the fees section above for a full breakdown.
3What is the minimum deposit for AJ Bell vs IC Markets?
AJ Bell requires a minimum deposit of $0. IC Markets requires $200.
4Which broker is safer, AJ Bell or IC Markets?
AJ Bell is regulated by FCA, while IC Markets holds licences from ASIC, CySEC.
5What trading platforms do AJ Bell and IC Markets support?
AJ Bell supports Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile. IC Markets supports MT4, MT5, TradingView, Proprietary Mobile.
6Can I use both AJ Bell and IC Markets?
Yes, you can hold accounts at multiple brokers simultaneously. Many traders diversify across platforms to access different markets and tools.
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